One of the questions I'm often asked is "What's the best brand?". Everyone wants to find that one cosmetic company you can always trust and buy blindly. However, as appealing as this idea might be, it's not that simple. From the sad but true fact that something that works for one person (be it a color or a skin care product) might be terribly wrong for another, to the even sadder one that every company that I can think of, including my most favorites, has some flops in its line.

I'm not entirely sure in which of the above categories to place L'Occiane's Honey Face Cream. I love their bath and body products. I use several of their body washes and lotions and consider their Ultra Rich Shea Butter Cream as my holy grail and the standard measure for any good body product. But my little skin care detour with a sample of this honey cream was pretty awful.

I should have guessed it's not for me when upon application the cream just floated there on my skin, not absorbing or moisturizing. The morning after breakouts were my punishment for this one night stand. I will not be messing up with my current routine any time soon.

One of the questions I'm often asked is "What's the best brand?". Everyone wants to find that one cosmetic company you can always trust and buy blindly. However, as appealing as this idea might be, it's not that simple. From the sad but true fact that something that works for one person (be it a color or a skin care product) might be terribly wrong for another, to the even sadder one that every company that I can think of, including my most favorites, has some flops in its line.

I'm not entirely sure in which of the above categories to place L'Occiane's Honey Face Cream. I love their bath and body products. I use several of their body washes and lotions and consider their Ultra Rich Shea Butter Cream as my holy grail and the standard measure for any good body product. But my little skin care detour with a sample of this honey cream was pretty awful.

I should have guessed it's not for me when upon application the cream just floated there on my skin, not absorbing or moisturizing. The morning after breakouts were my punishment for this one night stand. I will not be messing up with my current routine any time soon.

One of the questions I'm often asked is "What's the best brand?". Everyone wants to find that one cosmetic company you can always trust and buy blindly. However, as appealing as this idea might be, it's not that simple. From the sad but true fact that something that works for one person (be it a color or a skin care product) might be terribly wrong for another, to the even sadder one that every company that I can think of, including my most favorites, has some flops in its line.

I'm not entirely sure in which of the above categories to place L'Occiane's Honey Face Cream. I love their bath and body products. I use several of their body washes and lotions and consider their Ultra Rich Shea Butter Cream as my holy grail and the standard measure for any good body product. But my little skin care detour with a sample of this honey cream was pretty awful.

I should have guessed it's not for me when upon application the cream just floated there on my skin, not absorbing or moisturizing. The morning after breakouts were my punishment for this one night stand. I will not be messing up with my current routine any time soon.

Hypnotic

I just might be willing to forgive Proenza Schouler and Lancome for that horrendous Proenza Pink lipstick. The reason? This dress. It's a collaboration between the designers and Lancome, to make a dress inspired by Hypnose fragrance. The stunning dress will be auctioned off on eBay starting April 1st. All proceeds will go to Save the Children. When you go to the website you'll find a link to a little video clip featuring both the dress and the gorgeous Daria Werbowy.

Hypnotic

I just might be willing to forgive Proenza Schouler and Lancome for that horrendous Proenza Pink lipstick. The reason? This dress. It's a collaboration between the designers and Lancome, to make a dress inspired by Hypnose fragrance. The stunning dress will be auctioned off on eBay starting April 1st. All proceeds will go to Save the Children. When you go to the website you'll find a link to a little video clip featuring both the dress and the gorgeous Daria Werbowy.

Hypnotic

I just might be willing to forgive Proenza Schouler and Lancome for that horrendous Proenza Pink lipstick. The reason? This dress. It's a collaboration between the designers and Lancome, to make a dress inspired by Hypnose fragrance. The stunning dress will be auctioned off on eBay starting April 1st. All proceeds will go to Save the Children. When you go to the website you'll find a link to a little video clip featuring both the dress and the gorgeous Daria Werbowy.

Feline (Memory Lane IV, Panthere de Cartier)

The winter of 1995/96 wasn't the best one ever. I was fresh out of business school, living in a city by the sea that turned out to be a gray, dreary place, plagued with unemployment and air pollution. I was working for a very small employment agency (so small that I was the only employee), had my second-to-worst boss and was realizing that the real world wasn't all that.

There were a few bright spots, though. The Blond and I were living together and talking engagement, we adopted our first cat and just around the corner from my miserable office was a little store that sold several of my favorite beauty brands.

One evening, after another frustrating day of trying to place unqualified workers at jobs only a little less horrible than mine, I paid a visit to the store. I needed a new Lancome Artliner, and was contemplating going wild and buying a red lipstick. I found one that I liked (I can no longer remember which one or what shade), and the sales assistant rewarded me with a purse spray of a new-to-me Cartier fragrance, Panthere.

I still have this vial, which is ensconced in the grip of a blue plastic panther. I don't remember much from the first time I tried it on, other than that it was love at first sniff. So much love that within a few days (and a paycheck) I was back at that store buying a full bottle.

Today I know to classify it as a floriental, to identify the citrus in the opening, the white florals in the heart notes (it has one of the most delicate tuberose and jasmine blends I have ever come across) and enjoy the elegant woodsy spicy dry-down (sandalwood, tonka bean and labandum). Back then I could only say that it felt elegant and sexy, much darker and edgier than my everyday Eternity, but still bright enough to make me feel happy.

It still does. I'm definitely not the queen of white flowers, but this scent is a far cry from the heady Fracas and its ilk. It doesn't hit you on the head. Instead, it glides on velvety paws in a warm, enveloping way. The flowers are soft, and even the opening isn't sharp at all, being more about the blossom than the pulpy fruit. A cat would not recoil from this.

Back then, it was one of my more sophisticated scents. My taste has shifted since then, and I might not be as in awe of Panthere as I used to be, but I still wear it when I want to smell pretty and soft, with a hint of mystery.

Panthere used to be easier to find. Sephora carried the fragrance and several of the bath and body products in this line, most of them are now discontinued. My first bottle was refillable parfum de toilette, with a red plastic cap. Those are also gone now, replaced by the prettier edp bottle with the perching panther on top. You can find it occasionally at one of the online discounters, but it's easier to get at the department stores. There's also a parfum version that might be my next purchase. I'm very curious to see how they differ and get more staying power.

Feline (Memory Lane IV, Panthere de Cartier)

The winter of 1995/96 wasn't the best one ever. I was fresh out of business school, living in a city by the sea that turned out to be a gray, dreary place, plagued with unemployment and air pollution. I was working for a very small employment agency (so small that I was the only employee), had my second-to-worst boss and was realizing that the real world wasn't all that.

There were a few bright spots, though. The Blond and I were living together and talking engagement, we adopted our first cat and just around the corner from my miserable office was a little store that sold several of my favorite beauty brands.

One evening, after another frustrating day of trying to place unqualified workers at jobs only a little less horrible than mine, I paid a visit to the store. I needed a new Lancome Artliner, and was contemplating going wild and buying a red lipstick. I found one that I liked (I can no longer remember which one or what shade), and the sales assistant rewarded me with a purse spray of a new-to-me Cartier fragrance, Panthere.

I still have this vial, which is ensconced in the grip of a blue plastic panther. I don't remember much from the first time I tried it on, other than that it was love at first sniff. So much love that within a few days (and a paycheck) I was back at that store buying a full bottle.

Today I know to classify it as a floriental, to identify the citrus in the opening, the white florals in the heart notes (it has one of the most delicate tuberose and jasmine blends I have ever come across) and enjoy the elegant woodsy spicy dry-down (sandalwood, tonka bean and labandum). Back then I could only say that it felt elegant and sexy, much darker and edgier than my everyday Eternity, but still bright enough to make me feel happy.

It still does. I'm definitely not the queen of white flowers, but this scent is a far cry from the heady Fracas and its ilk. It doesn't hit you on the head. Instead, it glides on velvety paws in a warm, enveloping way. The flowers are soft, and even the opening isn't sharp at all, being more about the blossom than the pulpy fruit. A cat would not recoil from this.

Back then, it was one of my more sophisticated scents. My taste has shifted since then, and I might not be as in awe of Panthere as I used to be, but I still wear it when I want to smell pretty and soft, with a hint of mystery.

Panthere used to be easier to find. Sephora carried the fragrance and several of the bath and body products in this line, most of them are now discontinued. My first bottle was refillable parfum de toilette, with a red plastic cap. Those are also gone now, replaced by the prettier edp bottle with the perching panther on top. You can find it occasionally at one of the online discounters, but it's easier to get at the department stores. There's also a parfum version that might be my next purchase. I'm very curious to see how they differ and get more staying power.

Feline (Memory Lane IV, Panthere de Cartier)

The winter of 1995/96 wasn't the best one ever. I was fresh out of business school, living in a city by the sea that turned out to be a gray, dreary place, plagued with unemployment and air pollution. I was working for a very small employment agency (so small that I was the only employee), had my second-to-worst boss and was realizing that the real world wasn't all that.

There were a few bright spots, though. The Blond and I were living together and talking engagement, we adopted our first cat and just around the corner from my miserable office was a little store that sold several of my favorite beauty brands.

One evening, after another frustrating day of trying to place unqualified workers at jobs only a little less horrible than mine, I paid a visit to the store. I needed a new Lancome Artliner, and was contemplating going wild and buying a red lipstick. I found one that I liked (I can no longer remember which one or what shade), and the sales assistant rewarded me with a purse spray of a new-to-me Cartier fragrance, Panthere.

I still have this vial, which is ensconced in the grip of a blue plastic panther. I don't remember much from the first time I tried it on, other than that it was love at first sniff. So much love that within a few days (and a paycheck) I was back at that store buying a full bottle.

Today I know to classify it as a floriental, to identify the citrus in the opening, the white florals in the heart notes (it has one of the most delicate tuberose and jasmine blends I have ever come across) and enjoy the elegant woodsy spicy dry-down (sandalwood, tonka bean and labandum). Back then I could only say that it felt elegant and sexy, much darker and edgier than my everyday Eternity, but still bright enough to make me feel happy.

It still does. I'm definitely not the queen of white flowers, but this scent is a far cry from the heady Fracas and its ilk. It doesn't hit you on the head. Instead, it glides on velvety paws in a warm, enveloping way. The flowers are soft, and even the opening isn't sharp at all, being more about the blossom than the pulpy fruit. A cat would not recoil from this.

Back then, it was one of my more sophisticated scents. My taste has shifted since then, and I might not be as in awe of Panthere as I used to be, but I still wear it when I want to smell pretty and soft, with a hint of mystery.

Panthere used to be easier to find. Sephora carried the fragrance and several of the bath and body products in this line, most of them are now discontinued. My first bottle was refillable parfum de toilette, with a red plastic cap. Those are also gone now, replaced by the prettier edp bottle with the perching panther on top. You can find it occasionally at one of the online discounters, but it's easier to get at the department stores. There's also a parfum version that might be my next purchase. I'm very curious to see how they differ and get more staying power.

A Good Read

The new issue of Sniffapalooza Magazine will be out tomorrow morning. I can't wait.

A Good Read

The new issue of Sniffapalooza Magazine will be out tomorrow morning. I can't wait.

A Good Read

The new issue of Sniffapalooza Magazine will be out tomorrow morning. I can't wait.

Magnolia

Bliss products are a hit or miss thing for me. Some, like their hand and foot products, are brilliant. Others are just decent, but over-hyped and outrageously priced. And nearly all of them are seriously lacking in the scent department. In this price range I expect scents that don't belong in the cabinet under the kitchen sink.

Bliss Magnolia Body Scrub is a rare one in this regard. The magnolia scent is actually very delicate and pleasant, even for someone like me who isn't a big magnolia fan. I wouldn't object to a full line of products carrying this fragrance. Very spring-appropriate, cheerful and feminine, but doesn't last longer than the steam in your shower and will not interfere with your perfume.

The problem is that it's a very unimpressive scrub. The consistency is thin, the granules are tiny, and though the product is creamy and pleasant on the skin, it isn't much more than a glorified shower cream. It's very comparable to the exfoliating body wash from Maryam's Soap Nook. Very pleasant, not drying or irritating, but can't be trusted with all of your exfoliating needs.

Magnolia

Bliss products are a hit or miss thing for me. Some, like their hand and foot products, are brilliant. Others are just decent, but over-hyped and outrageously priced. And nearly all of them are seriously lacking in the scent department. In this price range I expect scents that don't belong in the cabinet under the kitchen sink.

Bliss Magnolia Body Scrub is a rare one in this regard. The magnolia scent is actually very delicate and pleasant, even for someone like me who isn't a big magnolia fan. I wouldn't object to a full line of products carrying this fragrance. Very spring-appropriate, cheerful and feminine, but doesn't last longer than the steam in your shower and will not interfere with your perfume.

The problem is that it's a very unimpressive scrub. The consistency is thin, the granules are tiny, and though the product is creamy and pleasant on the skin, it isn't much more than a glorified shower cream. It's very comparable to the exfoliating body wash from Maryam's Soap Nook. Very pleasant, not drying or irritating, but can't be trusted with all of your exfoliating needs.

Magnolia

Bliss products are a hit or miss thing for me. Some, like their hand and foot products, are brilliant. Others are just decent, but over-hyped and outrageously priced. And nearly all of them are seriously lacking in the scent department. In this price range I expect scents that don't belong in the cabinet under the kitchen sink.

Bliss Magnolia Body Scrub is a rare one in this regard. The magnolia scent is actually very delicate and pleasant, even for someone like me who isn't a big magnolia fan. I wouldn't object to a full line of products carrying this fragrance. Very spring-appropriate, cheerful and feminine, but doesn't last longer than the steam in your shower and will not interfere with your perfume.

The problem is that it's a very unimpressive scrub. The consistency is thin, the granules are tiny, and though the product is creamy and pleasant on the skin, it isn't much more than a glorified shower cream. It's very comparable to the exfoliating body wash from Maryam's Soap Nook. Very pleasant, not drying or irritating, but can't be trusted with all of your exfoliating needs.

Don't Say I Didn't Warn You

Keep this picture in mind next time you reach for that lipstick.

Don't Say I Didn't Warn You

Keep this picture in mind next time you reach for that lipstick.

Don't Say I Didn't Warn You

Keep this picture in mind next time you reach for that lipstick.

Memory Lane III- Tiffany

There aren't too many icons of glamor that are bigger and bolder than Tiffany & Co.. The robin egg blue boxes, the instantly recognizable store, Audrey and her breakfast...
Years before I had my first piece of Tiffany jewelry or even set foot in one of their stores, I owned a bottle of their original perfume. A bottle of pure femininity, glamor and mystique, which made my 22 year old self feel larger than life.

I knew very little about perfume back then, and couldn't really recognize notes. I didn't have much of a defined taste (other than realizing that peachy-fruity scents made me gag) and could barely recognize scent groups. I can't remember if I knew back then what's in the juice, but I knew that this one was BIG.

Tiffany perfume is, indeed, a big floral. Not as heady as tuberose based scents, but floral all the same. It's beautifully blended, so none of the flowers takes center stage. The notes are: rose, jasmine, iris, ylang-ylang and orange blossom. Like with other old favorites that I've been wearing for many years, I can't deconstruct the fragrance and analyze it even semi-objectively. I don't see notes. I see memories .

The elegant femininity of the bottle and the scent were what I craved when I first came across it. It was my evening and special occasion fragrance, and I still treat it as such. You have to dress and act like a lady when you're wearing Tiffany. And it gives you the confidence to do and be so. But, don't mistake it for an aloof, formal, Jackie O of a scent. It has warmth and sweetness that feels almost like vanilla, just not quite as simple. It's approachable and comforting.

Tiffany used to be more readily available than it is now. I've always bought bottles of the EdP, either from Sephora or online. Now it seems that you can only find it at Tiffany's website. everyone else is only selling the EdT if they have it at all. Tiffany also has a pure parfum version , and I'm seriously considering getting that one once I finish my current EdP bottle. I adore this scent as much as ever, but I wear it less often because of all the other bottles I have in rotation (not to mention my sampling habit). This is why I'm thinking that a tiny bottle of the pure essence might serve me well.

Memory Lane III- Tiffany

There aren't too many icons of glamor that are bigger and bolder than Tiffany & Co.. The robin egg blue boxes, the instantly recognizable store, Audrey and her breakfast...
Years before I had my first piece of Tiffany jewelry or even set foot in one of their stores, I owned a bottle of their original perfume. A bottle of pure femininity, glamor and mystique, which made my 22 year old self feel larger than life.

I knew very little about perfume back then, and couldn't really recognize notes. I didn't have much of a defined taste (other than realizing that peachy-fruity scents made me gag) and could barely recognize scent groups. I can't remember if I knew back then what's in the juice, but I knew that this one was BIG.

Tiffany perfume is, indeed, a big floral. Not as heady as tuberose based scents, but floral all the same. It's beautifully blended, so none of the flowers takes center stage. The notes are: rose, jasmine, iris, ylang-ylang and orange blossom. Like with other old favorites that I've been wearing for many years, I can't deconstruct the fragrance and analyze it even semi-objectively. I don't see notes. I see memories .

The elegant femininity of the bottle and the scent were what I craved when I first came across it. It was my evening and special occasion fragrance, and I still treat it as such. You have to dress and act like a lady when you're wearing Tiffany. And it gives you the confidence to do and be so. But, don't mistake it for an aloof, formal, Jackie O of a scent. It has warmth and sweetness that feels almost like vanilla, just not quite as simple. It's approachable and comforting.

Tiffany used to be more readily available than it is now. I've always bought bottles of the EdP, either from Sephora or online. Now it seems that you can only find it at Tiffany's website. everyone else is only selling the EdT if they have it at all. Tiffany also has a pure parfum version , and I'm seriously considering getting that one once I finish my current EdP bottle. I adore this scent as much as ever, but I wear it less often because of all the other bottles I have in rotation (not to mention my sampling habit). This is why I'm thinking that a tiny bottle of the pure essence might serve me well.

Memory Lane III- Tiffany

There aren't too many icons of glamor that are bigger and bolder than Tiffany & Co.. The robin egg blue boxes, the instantly recognizable store, Audrey and her breakfast...
Years before I had my first piece of Tiffany jewelry or even set foot in one of their stores, I owned a bottle of their original perfume. A bottle of pure femininity, glamor and mystique, which made my 22 year old self feel larger than life.

I knew very little about perfume back then, and couldn't really recognize notes. I didn't have much of a defined taste (other than realizing that peachy-fruity scents made me gag) and could barely recognize scent groups. I can't remember if I knew back then what's in the juice, but I knew that this one was BIG.

Tiffany perfume is, indeed, a big floral. Not as heady as tuberose based scents, but floral all the same. It's beautifully blended, so none of the flowers takes center stage. The notes are: rose, jasmine, iris, ylang-ylang and orange blossom. Like with other old favorites that I've been wearing for many years, I can't deconstruct the fragrance and analyze it even semi-objectively. I don't see notes. I see memories .

The elegant femininity of the bottle and the scent were what I craved when I first came across it. It was my evening and special occasion fragrance, and I still treat it as such. You have to dress and act like a lady when you're wearing Tiffany. And it gives you the confidence to do and be so. But, don't mistake it for an aloof, formal, Jackie O of a scent. It has warmth and sweetness that feels almost like vanilla, just not quite as simple. It's approachable and comforting.

Tiffany used to be more readily available than it is now. I've always bought bottles of the EdP, either from Sephora or online. Now it seems that you can only find it at Tiffany's website. everyone else is only selling the EdT if they have it at all. Tiffany also has a pure parfum version , and I'm seriously considering getting that one once I finish my current EdP bottle. I adore this scent as much as ever, but I wear it less often because of all the other bottles I have in rotation (not to mention my sampling habit). This is why I'm thinking that a tiny bottle of the pure essence might serve me well.

Magic Mousse

My experience with cream and gel blushes was less than stellar until now. Either the texture felt horrible to my skin (Tarte), they didn't blend well (Benetint), or the color was so far off that I ended up looking like a clown (remember O-Glo?). It all changed when I tried Magique Blush from Lancome.

First, the texture is great. It's an airy mousse that feels soft and is easy to blend. A couple of swipes with my finger tips and it looks perfect. It melts and merges nicely into my Chanel foundation, and the result looks more natural than any other blush I've tried.

Then, there's the color. I chose Plum Fantasy, which is very similar to their Aplum Blush Subtil. The color is like a light and sheer version of Benefit's Dallas, which I love, but looks a bit too much for my still winter-pale skin. Plum Fantasy is such a natural color on my skin that I use a touch of it on my nose and forehead, like I would do with a bronzer. It gives just the right amount of lively color.

I tried it on my lips, but it's too dry and matte and the color is exactly the same as my natural lips, so it doesn't contribute anything. There's only so much multitasking you can expect. The only improvement this great blush could use, is a longer lasting power. It fades to nothing within 4-5 hours and requires a touch up.

The web site suggests applying Magique Blush with their Precision Cheek brush. I caved and got the Petit one, but here's where you can learn from my mistakes. It's completely unnecessary, and actually doesn't perform half as well as your fingers. The straight cut of the bristles is weird and doesn't contour to the face. Also, the mousse sticks to it and requires washing after every application.

Magic Mousse

My experience with cream and gel blushes was less than stellar until now. Either the texture felt horrible to my skin (Tarte), they didn't blend well (Benetint), or the color was so far off that I ended up looking like a clown (remember O-Glo?). It all changed when I tried Magique Blush from Lancome.

First, the texture is great. It's an airy mousse that feels soft and is easy to blend. A couple of swipes with my finger tips and it looks perfect. It melts and merges nicely into my Chanel foundation, and the result looks more natural than any other blush I've tried.

Then, there's the color. I chose Plum Fantasy, which is very similar to their Aplum Blush Subtil. The color is like a light and sheer version of Benefit's Dallas, which I love, but looks a bit too much for my still winter-pale skin. Plum Fantasy is such a natural color on my skin that I use a touch of it on my nose and forehead, like I would do with a bronzer. It gives just the right amount of lively color.

I tried it on my lips, but it's too dry and matte and the color is exactly the same as my natural lips, so it doesn't contribute anything. There's only so much multitasking you can expect. The only improvement this great blush could use, is a longer lasting power. It fades to nothing within 4-5 hours and requires a touch up.

The web site suggests applying Magique Blush with their Precision Cheek brush. I caved and got the Petit one, but here's where you can learn from my mistakes. It's completely unnecessary, and actually doesn't perform half as well as your fingers. The straight cut of the bristles is weird and doesn't contour to the face. Also, the mousse sticks to it and requires washing after every application.

Magic Mousse

My experience with cream and gel blushes was less than stellar until now. Either the texture felt horrible to my skin (Tarte), they didn't blend well (Benetint), or the color was so far off that I ended up looking like a clown (remember O-Glo?). It all changed when I tried Magique Blush from Lancome.

First, the texture is great. It's an airy mousse that feels soft and is easy to blend. A couple of swipes with my finger tips and it looks perfect. It melts and merges nicely into my Chanel foundation, and the result looks more natural than any other blush I've tried.

Then, there's the color. I chose Plum Fantasy, which is very similar to their Aplum Blush Subtil. The color is like a light and sheer version of Benefit's Dallas, which I love, but looks a bit too much for my still winter-pale skin. Plum Fantasy is such a natural color on my skin that I use a touch of it on my nose and forehead, like I would do with a bronzer. It gives just the right amount of lively color.

I tried it on my lips, but it's too dry and matte and the color is exactly the same as my natural lips, so it doesn't contribute anything. There's only so much multitasking you can expect. The only improvement this great blush could use, is a longer lasting power. It fades to nothing within 4-5 hours and requires a touch up.

The web site suggests applying Magique Blush with their Precision Cheek brush. I caved and got the Petit one, but here's where you can learn from my mistakes. It's completely unnecessary, and actually doesn't perform half as well as your fingers. The straight cut of the bristles is weird and doesn't contour to the face. Also, the mousse sticks to it and requires washing after every application.

like just about every woman who was born with curls, I was repressing a sigh as I saw some of the Oscar looks. Gwyneth, Reese and Nicole were all rocking my dream hair: Stick-straight and very blonde.

However, Barbie isn't the only trend this season. According to the latest Life & Style issue, big curls are also an option, and a very cute one. We saw it on J-Lo at the Oscars, but I wasn't very fond of that. There was something creepy in her look (and I don't mean her husband). I guess that i just don't buy the retro look on Jenny from the block.

I really like the version you can see on Emmy Rossum. It's pretty, looks effortless (though I'm sure that it actually took some work) and very fresh.

like just about every woman who was born with curls, I was repressing a sigh as I saw some of the Oscar looks. Gwyneth, Reese and Nicole were all rocking my dream hair: Stick-straight and very blonde.

However, Barbie isn't the only trend this season. According to the latest Life & Style issue, big curls are also an option, and a very cute one. We saw it on J-Lo at the Oscars, but I wasn't very fond of that. There was something creepy in her look (and I don't mean her husband). I guess that i just don't buy the retro look on Jenny from the block.

I really like the version you can see on Emmy Rossum. It's pretty, looks effortless (though I'm sure that it actually took some work) and very fresh.

like just about every woman who was born with curls, I was repressing a sigh as I saw some of the Oscar looks. Gwyneth, Reese and Nicole were all rocking my dream hair: Stick-straight and very blonde.

However, Barbie isn't the only trend this season. According to the latest Life & Style issue, big curls are also an option, and a very cute one. We saw it on J-Lo at the Oscars, but I wasn't very fond of that. There was something creepy in her look (and I don't mean her husband). I guess that i just don't buy the retro look on Jenny from the block.

I really like the version you can see on Emmy Rossum. It's pretty, looks effortless (though I'm sure that it actually took some work) and very fresh.

Pep, Prep and My Disfunctional Nose- Cristiano Fissore Cashmere

Nothing could be better with the kind of weather that we had for the last month or so, than a fragrance named Cashmere. I couldn't wait to try it, as in my mind cashmere is my long coats, many black sweaters and luxurious scarves. My taste in clothes leans towards the dramatic, and so does my idea of what I'd like a cashmere scent to be.

But cashmere is also the pink twin-set worn by the former prom queen, and this is exactly what Cashmere for Women by Cristiano Fissore smelled like every time that I tested it on my skin (and the following day. This might be an EdT, but it's so tenacious that it took more than one shower to completely get rid of it).

On paper, the notes (bergamot, jasmine, rose, lily of the valley, amber, cedar, myrrh, vanilla, white musk) sound almost perfect. But from the moment the scent unravels and envelopes my skin, something is definitely going wrong. Bergamot is the only fruity note listed, but it isn't the culprit of the fruity, peachy accord that greeted me, squealing like a cheerleader in a pep rally. I hoped she'd go away, scared by my very un-peppy skin, but she brought her college graduate sister instead. The one in the pink twinset who just joined the Junior League. The peach became candied and sugary, and has stayed there, killing everything that stands in its way: vanilla, ceder or musk. Muffy has got a gun and she's definitely going to use it.

I can't tell if it's the lily, the jasmine or the rose, but something there has turned fruity bubblegum on my skin, with a disturbing sour note. And it would just not go away. I'm sure that there are many who would love it and can make it work. I'm just not one of them.

As is the case with many male-female fragrance duos, disliking the women's perfume often ends up with me adoring the male version (Prada is a good example). This would have been the case here if only I could smell it.

There are several woods, patchouli and vetiver. I think I can detect the patchouli and some of the woods. However, the male version relies strongly on the very kind of musk to which I have a full anosmia. Seriously, I can bathe in this scent and only get a whiff of the opening, and then: Nothing. I think it saddens me even more than my failure with the DAR version.

Pep, Prep and My Disfunctional Nose- Cristiano Fissore Cashmere

Nothing could be better with the kind of weather that we had for the last month or so, than a fragrance named Cashmere. I couldn't wait to try it, as in my mind cashmere is my long coats, many black sweaters and luxurious scarves. My taste in clothes leans towards the dramatic, and so does my idea of what I'd like a cashmere scent to be.

But cashmere is also the pink twin-set worn by the former prom queen, and this is exactly what Cashmere for Women by Cristiano Fissore smelled like every time that I tested it on my skin (and the following day. This might be an EdT, but it's so tenacious that it took more than one shower to completely get rid of it).

On paper, the notes (bergamot, jasmine, rose, lily of the valley, amber, cedar, myrrh, vanilla, white musk) sound almost perfect. But from the moment the scent unravels and envelopes my skin, something is definitely going wrong. Bergamot is the only fruity note listed, but it isn't the culprit of the fruity, peachy accord that greeted me, squealing like a cheerleader in a pep rally. I hoped she'd go away, scared by my very un-peppy skin, but she brought her college graduate sister instead. The one in the pink twinset who just joined the Junior League. The peach became candied and sugary, and has stayed there, killing everything that stands in its way: vanilla, ceder or musk. Muffy has got a gun and she's definitely going to use it.

I can't tell if it's the lily, the jasmine or the rose, but something there has turned fruity bubblegum on my skin, with a disturbing sour note. And it would just not go away. I'm sure that there are many who would love it and can make it work. I'm just not one of them.

As is the case with many male-female fragrance duos, disliking the women's perfume often ends up with me adoring the male version (Prada is a good example). This would have been the case here if only I could smell it.

There are several woods, patchouli and vetiver. I think I can detect the patchouli and some of the woods. However, the male version relies strongly on the very kind of musk to which I have a full anosmia. Seriously, I can bathe in this scent and only get a whiff of the opening, and then: Nothing. I think it saddens me even more than my failure with the DAR version.

Pep, Prep and My Disfunctional Nose- Cristiano Fissore Cashmere

Nothing could be better with the kind of weather that we had for the last month or so, than a fragrance named Cashmere. I couldn't wait to try it, as in my mind cashmere is my long coats, many black sweaters and luxurious scarves. My taste in clothes leans towards the dramatic, and so does my idea of what I'd like a cashmere scent to be.

But cashmere is also the pink twin-set worn by the former prom queen, and this is exactly what Cashmere for Women by Cristiano Fissore smelled like every time that I tested it on my skin (and the following day. This might be an EdT, but it's so tenacious that it took more than one shower to completely get rid of it).

On paper, the notes (bergamot, jasmine, rose, lily of the valley, amber, cedar, myrrh, vanilla, white musk) sound almost perfect. But from the moment the scent unravels and envelopes my skin, something is definitely going wrong. Bergamot is the only fruity note listed, but it isn't the culprit of the fruity, peachy accord that greeted me, squealing like a cheerleader in a pep rally. I hoped she'd go away, scared by my very un-peppy skin, but she brought her college graduate sister instead. The one in the pink twinset who just joined the Junior League. The peach became candied and sugary, and has stayed there, killing everything that stands in its way: vanilla, ceder or musk. Muffy has got a gun and she's definitely going to use it.

I can't tell if it's the lily, the jasmine or the rose, but something there has turned fruity bubblegum on my skin, with a disturbing sour note. And it would just not go away. I'm sure that there are many who would love it and can make it work. I'm just not one of them.

As is the case with many male-female fragrance duos, disliking the women's perfume often ends up with me adoring the male version (Prada is a good example). This would have been the case here if only I could smell it.

There are several woods, patchouli and vetiver. I think I can detect the patchouli and some of the woods. However, the male version relies strongly on the very kind of musk to which I have a full anosmia. Seriously, I can bathe in this scent and only get a whiff of the opening, and then: Nothing. I think it saddens me even more than my failure with the DAR version.

A few weeks ago, while doing some damage at my local B&N store, I was leafing through Trinny and Susannah's second book, the one called "What You Wear Can Change Your Life". I don't have too much to say about the book, but it's probably a good inspiration for someone who feels stuck in a rut (or in 1985) fashion-wise and have no idea where to start. The "What Not to Wear" ladies have a great attitude, they understand how looks influence your sense of well-being. And even if it's not exactly high fashion or the latest trends, they know a thing or two about clothes. There's some practical advice about dressing according to your body type, but the color guide they offer is a bit too simplistic. There are way more than just "warm" and "cool" skin tones, and most women I know can safely choose certain colors and hues from both groups.

The makeup section of the book is not exactly groundbreaking. While every statement they make is very true, I highly doubt that anyone reading the beauty blogs really needs to be told that foundation must match the skin and that a lip liner darker than the lipstick is a deadly sin. The fact that clumpy mascara isn't making you pretty isn't a new concept, either. However, one of the ten makeup points that they mention is actually worth talking about, and that's the awfulness of most long lasting lipstick, and how they make lips look parched.

I'm glad that someone has said it. A formula that is supposed to last for eight hours come hell or high water, isn't designed to make your lips happy. I can't think of even one product of this kind that ever felt comfortable on my lips, and it makes me wonder why would anyone think that re-applying is such a big effort that she'd rather suffer through wearing a super dry lipstick. A matte look can be perfectly fine (ask Dita von Teese), but you need to choose your lipstick carefully, and probably forgo anything that is drying.

Instead, I'd go for a very pigmented, high quality and very moisturizing lipstick. The latest offering from Lancome, Color Fever lipstick, is excellent. I've already fallen in love with the gloss from the Color Fever line, and the new lipstick is just as wonderful. It definitely lives up to the promises regarding shine, pigment and comfort. As you apply it, the feeling is similar to a lip balm. it coats the lips in moisture.

It doesn't survive dinner or a makeout session, but reapplying is fun.

The color that I got to try (thanks to Kerry from Lancome), Burning Torch, is not yet available, but hopefully will be soon, because it is perfect. Despite the name, it's a fairly muted brownish red, that (at least with my skin tone) is very suitable for everyday wear.

A few weeks ago, while doing some damage at my local B&N store, I was leafing through Trinny and Susannah's second book, the one called "What You Wear Can Change Your Life". I don't have too much to say about the book, but it's probably a good inspiration for someone who feels stuck in a rut (or in 1985) fashion-wise and have no idea where to start. The "What Not to Wear" ladies have a great attitude, they understand how looks influence your sense of well-being. And even if it's not exactly high fashion or the latest trends, they know a thing or two about clothes. There's some practical advice about dressing according to your body type, but the color guide they offer is a bit too simplistic. There are way more than just "warm" and "cool" skin tones, and most women I know can safely choose certain colors and hues from both groups.

The makeup section of the book is not exactly groundbreaking. While every statement they make is very true, I highly doubt that anyone reading the beauty blogs really needs to be told that foundation must match the skin and that a lip liner darker than the lipstick is a deadly sin. The fact that clumpy mascara isn't making you pretty isn't a new concept, either. However, one of the ten makeup points that they mention is actually worth talking about, and that's the awfulness of most long lasting lipstick, and how they make lips look parched.

I'm glad that someone has said it. A formula that is supposed to last for eight hours come hell or high water, isn't designed to make your lips happy. I can't think of even one product of this kind that ever felt comfortable on my lips, and it makes me wonder why would anyone think that re-applying is such a big effort that she'd rather suffer through wearing a super dry lipstick. A matte look can be perfectly fine (ask Dita von Teese), but you need to choose your lipstick carefully, and probably forgo anything that is drying.

Instead, I'd go for a very pigmented, high quality and very moisturizing lipstick. The latest offering from Lancome, Color Fever lipstick, is excellent. I've already fallen in love with the gloss from the Color Fever line, and the new lipstick is just as wonderful. It definitely lives up to the promises regarding shine, pigment and comfort. As you apply it, the feeling is similar to a lip balm. it coats the lips in moisture.

It doesn't survive dinner or a makeout session, but reapplying is fun.

The color that I got to try (thanks to Kerry from Lancome), Burning Torch, is not yet available, but hopefully will be soon, because it is perfect. Despite the name, it's a fairly muted brownish red, that (at least with my skin tone) is very suitable for everyday wear.

A few weeks ago, while doing some damage at my local B&N store, I was leafing through Trinny and Susannah's second book, the one called "What You Wear Can Change Your Life". I don't have too much to say about the book, but it's probably a good inspiration for someone who feels stuck in a rut (or in 1985) fashion-wise and have no idea where to start. The "What Not to Wear" ladies have a great attitude, they understand how looks influence your sense of well-being. And even if it's not exactly high fashion or the latest trends, they know a thing or two about clothes. There's some practical advice about dressing according to your body type, but the color guide they offer is a bit too simplistic. There are way more than just "warm" and "cool" skin tones, and most women I know can safely choose certain colors and hues from both groups.

The makeup section of the book is not exactly groundbreaking. While every statement they make is very true, I highly doubt that anyone reading the beauty blogs really needs to be told that foundation must match the skin and that a lip liner darker than the lipstick is a deadly sin. The fact that clumpy mascara isn't making you pretty isn't a new concept, either. However, one of the ten makeup points that they mention is actually worth talking about, and that's the awfulness of most long lasting lipstick, and how they make lips look parched.

I'm glad that someone has said it. A formula that is supposed to last for eight hours come hell or high water, isn't designed to make your lips happy. I can't think of even one product of this kind that ever felt comfortable on my lips, and it makes me wonder why would anyone think that re-applying is such a big effort that she'd rather suffer through wearing a super dry lipstick. A matte look can be perfectly fine (ask Dita von Teese), but you need to choose your lipstick carefully, and probably forgo anything that is drying.

Instead, I'd go for a very pigmented, high quality and very moisturizing lipstick. The latest offering from Lancome, Color Fever lipstick, is excellent. I've already fallen in love with the gloss from the Color Fever line, and the new lipstick is just as wonderful. It definitely lives up to the promises regarding shine, pigment and comfort. As you apply it, the feeling is similar to a lip balm. it coats the lips in moisture.

It doesn't survive dinner or a makeout session, but reapplying is fun.

The color that I got to try (thanks to Kerry from Lancome), Burning Torch, is not yet available, but hopefully will be soon, because it is perfect. Despite the name, it's a fairly muted brownish red, that (at least with my skin tone) is very suitable for everyday wear.

Ask the Non-Blonde 2: Lancome Mascara

I was asked about the difference between two Lancome mascaras: L'Extreme and Fatale. Now, I own L'Extreme, as well as Hypnose, Defincils and Defincils Pro, and I use them all (a review of the latter is coming soon), but I don't own Fatale. However, my mother, a non-blonde who is well-versed in beauty products and is probably to blame for my own little beauty habit, uses it.

According to my mom, Fatale is exactly what you see in the ads. It gives the fake lashes look, very 60s style, bold and completely not safe for work. It's a great evening look, because the lashes look very thick and their length is amazing: Up to there. "There" being her eyebrows.

L'Extreme is a great option if you want really long lashes that still look yours. I only became aware of just how much it lengthens until I began using a lash curler. Until then, the difference between L'Extreme and the other mascaras wasn't that obvious. They all gave definition and maybe some length. But once curled, you can see that Hypnose gives a thicker, fuller look, while L'Extreme is all about the length, and it holds the curl like no other mascara.

(Photo of Twiggy, found somewhere on MySpaces)

Ask the Non-Blonde 2: Lancome Mascara

I was asked about the difference between two Lancome mascaras: L'Extreme and Fatale. Now, I own L'Extreme, as well as Hypnose, Defincils and Defincils Pro, and I use them all (a review of the latter is coming soon), but I don't own Fatale. However, my mother, a non-blonde who is well-versed in beauty products and is probably to blame for my own little beauty habit, uses it.

According to my mom, Fatale is exactly what you see in the ads. It gives the fake lashes look, very 60s style, bold and completely not safe for work. It's a great evening look, because the lashes look very thick and their length is amazing: Up to there. "There" being her eyebrows.

L'Extreme is a great option if you want really long lashes that still look yours. I only became aware of just how much it lengthens until I began using a lash curler. Until then, the difference between L'Extreme and the other mascaras wasn't that obvious. They all gave definition and maybe some length. But once curled, you can see that Hypnose gives a thicker, fuller look, while L'Extreme is all about the length, and it holds the curl like no other mascara.

(Photo of Twiggy, found somewhere on MySpaces)

Ask the Non-Blonde 2: Lancome Mascara

I was asked about the difference between two Lancome mascaras: L'Extreme and Fatale. Now, I own L'Extreme, as well as Hypnose, Defincils and Defincils Pro, and I use them all (a review of the latter is coming soon), but I don't own Fatale. However, my mother, a non-blonde who is well-versed in beauty products and is probably to blame for my own little beauty habit, uses it.

According to my mom, Fatale is exactly what you see in the ads. It gives the fake lashes look, very 60s style, bold and completely not safe for work. It's a great evening look, because the lashes look very thick and their length is amazing: Up to there. "There" being her eyebrows.

L'Extreme is a great option if you want really long lashes that still look yours. I only became aware of just how much it lengthens until I began using a lash curler. Until then, the difference between L'Extreme and the other mascaras wasn't that obvious. They all gave definition and maybe some length. But once curled, you can see that Hypnose gives a thicker, fuller look, while L'Extreme is all about the length, and it holds the curl like no other mascara.

(Photo of Twiggy, found somewhere on MySpaces)

Ask the Non-Blonde 1: Purple Eye Shadow

I love getting questions from readers, both through the blog's comments and by email. I email back when applicable, but this one was left as a comment and would probably be of interest to others. I was asked to recommend a rich purple/plum eye shadow for a green-eyed reader in her 30s.

My reply: The exact color that is right for you depends on your skin tone even more than on your eye color. There are many beautiful purples, and plum is a great option, because as a warmer color than violet it's more flattering on most. The ones I'm listing here are my personal favorites:

Dior 2 Color Eyeshadow. You can't go wrong with Dior. The shadows are very pigmented, easy to apply, blend beautifully and last without fading and creasing. Diorart is a combination of a soft plum and medium/fair pink that complements it beautifully. For more drama, there are the new. They are bolder and more shimmery. Amber Plum has a golden sheen and would look lovely if you're looking for a warmer tone.


I've written before about Bourjois Petite Guide de Style. The tiny booklets are among my favorite makeup items of the season, and I find all the colors to be very wearable. Excellent quality and long wear make them a very attractive option. Coquette Rosette is a violet/pink combo. From my experience, the shimmer is very delicate and is office appropriate.

Lorac single shadows (as well as their palettes) are among the best around. They are never too shimmery, but the colors are true to to what you see in the little pots. Garnet is a rich plum, one that I would have bought for myself if I didn't own several others already (Diors and a couple of sadly discontinued Elizabeth Ardens).

Ask the Non-Blonde 1: Purple Eye Shadow

I love getting questions from readers, both through the blog's comments and by email. I email back when applicable, but this one was left as a comment and would probably be of interest to others. I was asked to recommend a rich purple/plum eye shadow for a green-eyed reader in her 30s.

My reply: The exact color that is right for you depends on your skin tone even more than on your eye color. There are many beautiful purples, and plum is a great option, because as a warmer color than violet it's more flattering on most. The ones I'm listing here are my personal favorites:

Dior 2 Color Eyeshadow. You can't go wrong with Dior. The shadows are very pigmented, easy to apply, blend beautifully and last without fading and creasing. Diorart is a combination of a soft plum and medium/fair pink that complements it beautifully. For more drama, there are the new. They are bolder and more shimmery. Amber Plum has a golden sheen and would look lovely if you're looking for a warmer tone.


I've written before about Bourjois Petite Guide de Style. The tiny booklets are among my favorite makeup items of the season, and I find all the colors to be very wearable. Excellent quality and long wear make them a very attractive option. Coquette Rosette is a violet/pink combo. From my experience, the shimmer is very delicate and is office appropriate.

Lorac single shadows (as well as their palettes) are among the best around. They are never too shimmery, but the colors are true to to what you see in the little pots. Garnet is a rich plum, one that I would have bought for myself if I didn't own several others already (Diors and a couple of sadly discontinued Elizabeth Ardens).